NCT06635811 · University of Florida
Circadian Adaptive DBS in Essential Tremor
What this study is about
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the thalamus is an effective treatment for medically refractory essential tremor (ET). DBS involves delivering continuous stimulation to the brain through electrodes permanently implanted in the thalamus.
View original scientific description
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the thalamus is an effective treatment for medically refractory essential tremor (ET). DBS involves delivering continuous stimulation to the brain through electrodes permanently implanted in the thalamus. Despite proven effectiveness, the long-term benefit of DBS can wane over time (habituation) and side effects, including paresthesia and dysarthria, often limit the amplitude of the stimulation, resulting in suboptimal control of tremor. In clinical practice, many groups advise patients to switch their devices off at night to avoid habituation and reduce side effects. However, manually turning off the device at night can result in uncontrolled tremor when the patient moves at night. This study aims to develop an algorithm that automatically turns off stimulation when a patient is asleep, based on circadian brain signals. Turning off stimulation could potentially improve the therapy by limiting adverse effects, increasing efficacy, reducing the risk of habituation, and prolonging battery life. This study will evaluate the feasibility, safety, and tolerability of circadian adaptive DBS.
Interventions
DEVICE
Circadian Adaptive DBS
DBS automatically turned off during sleep
DEVICE
Conventional DBS
Continous DBS
Primary outcome measures
Presence of thalamic circadian rhythm
Time frame: Baseline (first month of study participation)
Thalamic circadian rhythm is defined as a significant difference in day vs night brain activity. It can be used to set up adaptive DBS.
Incidence of stimulation-induced adverse events with aDBS compared to cDBS
Time frame: Double-blind crossover period (second month of study participation)
Adverse events are monitored the entire time subject is enrolled in study. Stimulation-induced adverse events during the double-blind crossover is a primary endpoint.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Diagnosis of Essential Tremor confirmed by a Movement Disorders specialist following established criteria recommended by the Movement Disorders Society
- Patients implanted with unilateral or bilateral VIM DBS leads attached to the Medtronic Percept DBS device for the treatment of Essential Tremor
- Patients with clinical benefit of DBS as defined by a 30% improvement on the TRS or TETRAS at least 3 months after DBS implantation
- DBS programmed in a monopolar configuration allowing chronic brain sensing (C+1- or C+2- in ring mode or any direction)
- Be between 21 and 89 years old
- Ability to give informed consent for the study
Exclusion criteria
- Inability to comply with the study protocol
- Pregnancy: all women of childbearing potential will have a negative urine pregnancy test prior to undergoing the study
- Current active suicidal ideation (Yes to #2-5 on C-SSRS)
- Any personality or mood symptoms that study personnel believe will interfere with study requirements
Where
- Gainesville, Florida
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Dec 23, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations